While much of the Northern Virginia region relies on surface water, in western Loudoun, community wells provide water supply for about 1/3 of the demand on groundwater at more than 300,000 gallons per month. Residential wells account for about 2/3rds of the demand along with wells for rural businesses. 

For comprehensive water supply planning, there should be more direct groundwater data analysis available and included in the plan for the entirety of the demand. Further, a focus on educational outreach as part of water supply planning is needed to help increase awareness of the limitations of groundwater. It is important not only for those individuals and businesses who are dependent on it, but also for decision-makers who must decide on proposals for large commercial uses that are proposed to develop on groundwater resources. A lack of adequate data and a related understanding could result in diminishing water supplies for both the proposed use and for those in nearby areas who may see their wells impacted and may have no recourse but to drill additional wells at great expense.

Drought response strategies for groundwater are different from those for surface water users and so far, are inadequate to help communities avoid risk as climate change impacts precipitation patterns.

A recent independent report published in Loudoun County describes existing analysis and reason for concern about decreasing groundwater levels. It points to the need for more proactive analysis as a risk reduction strategy. The risk of inadequate information is that expensive solutions may become needlessly unavoidable.  

The need for greater groundwater analysis and guidance for usage and drought response planning is true across Virginia, and is appropriate in statewide water supply guidance.